Australian Greg Chalmers in seventh heaven after birdies land him lead in Australian Open crown
Dallas-based golfer is eyeing his third national title as Rory McIlroy and Adam Scott prepare to swoop heading into weekend rounds
Two-time winner Greg Chalmers sunk seven birdies on the way to the outright lead in the Australian Open with Rory McIlroy and Adam Scott poised to swoop after Friday’s second round in Sydney.
The Australian left-hander, who won his national open in 1998 and 2011, swept to the front with two birdies in his final four holes at The Australian course to finish at five-under 66 for the day.
Dallas-based Chalmers, with a total of five-under 137, held a one-shot lead over McIlroy, Australians Adam Crawford and Todd Sinnott as well as American Conrad Schindler heading into the weekend rounds.
I’m really pleased, seven birdies, a couple of bogeys, but it’s very early to be thinking about what’s going to happen
Players sported black ribbons during Friday’s second round in respect for test cricketer Phillip Hughes, who died on Thursday after being knocked unconscious by a ball in a domestic game in Sydney this week.
“I’m really pleased, seven birdies, a couple of bogeys, but it’s very early to be thinking about what’s going to happen on Sunday night, considering who’s right behind me and playing well,” Chalmers said.
World number one McIlroy had a rollercoaster round containing an eagle, six birdies, six bogeys and just one par on the homeward nine holes, but is well placed at the halfway stage to defend his title.
McIlroy overhauled Scott with a birdie at the final hole to wlast year’s tournament at Royal Sydney in what was his only last year tournament success.
